The Athletic FC Podcast

In this exciting discussion, senior football writers Andy Mitten and Oli Kay dive into Carlos Tevez's iconic transfer from Manchester United to Manchester City in 2009. They explore the controversy surrounding the move, marking a pivotal shift in Manchester's football rivalry. The duo unpacks Tevez's role in the power dynamics post-Abu Dhabi takeover and the financial motivations at play. They also reflect on how this transfer transformed City into a competitive force, reshaping the landscape of Premier League football forever.

James McNicholas, an Arsenal writer for The Athletic, and Laura Williamson, Editor-in for The Athletic, dive deep into the serious charges against former midfielder Thomas Partey. They discuss the timeline of allegations and the ethical quandaries for Arsenal as a club. The guests explore the legal complexities of naming players amid investigations, comparing football's lack of structured guidelines with the NFL's disciplined conduct frameworks. The conversation also highlights the need for better handling of sensitive situations in sports and the public’s perception of media coverage.

Mark Critchley, a Manchester football writer for The Athletic, and Phil Hay, the Lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter, dive into Manchester United's struggle to offload unwanted players like Marcus Rashford. They examine contract intricacies and the impact on team dynamics. Financial pressures and declining player valuations complicate transfers, making it harder for the club to navigate the market. The duo also reflects on how management changes could affect player futures, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Rashford and the broader challenges for the club.

David Ornstein, a renowned football correspondent at The Athletic, and Carl Anka, a tactical writer with keen insights on Manchester United, dive into Arsenal's pursuit of striker Viktor Gyökeres. They discuss how Gyökeres could fit into Mikel Arteta's plans, analyzing his scoring prowess and physical style. The conversation also touches on Arsenal's strategic transfer dynamics, comparing Gyökeres with other targets and examining the implications for team structure as they aim for the title.

Saudi Arabia's growing influence in global soccer takes center stage as new investments reshape the landscape. The exchange between national pride and criticism is explored through the lens of famous matches. The strategic role of the Public Investment Fund is examined, along with fan engagement at major events in the U.S. Contrasts in culture between Austin and Riyadh highlight complexities of freedom of expression. The moral implications of these sports investments raise important questions about human rights and international relationships.

James Pearce, Liverpool correspondent, shares emotional reflections on the late Diogo Jota, highlighting his deep impact on the club and fans alike. Simon Hughes reminisces about Jota's remarkable journey from Wolves to Liverpool, showcasing his resilience and dedication. Tim Spiers adds personal anecdotes, capturing Jota's character and connection to teammates. The discussion dives into the somber atmosphere at Anfield, the tributes honoring Jota’s legacy, and the profound loss felt in the football community.

David Ornstein, a renowned football correspondent, and Simon Johnson, a dedicated Chelsea writer, dive into the whirlwind of Chelsea's transfer activity. They discuss the club's aggressive strategy to secure signings before the window closes, focusing on players like João Pedro. The duo highlights the potential impact of player departures on new arrivals and explores the implications of Kepa's possible move to Arsenal. Their insights shed light on the club's ambition to nurture a younger squad while balancing excitement for the upcoming season.

Joining the discussion are Matt Slater, a senior football news reporter, Tom Williams, a French football writer, and Matt Woosnam, a Crystal Palace correspondent. They delve into the unexpected relegation of Lyon, examining the impact of John Textor's multi-club ownership model. The trio discusses the financial turmoil facing the club, fan frustrations, and the challenges of UEFA compliance. They also explore the implications of Lyon's struggles for the broader French football landscape and what it means for Crystal Palace's European dreams.

Amy Lawrence, Arsenal correspondent, and David Ornstein, football correspondent, join Oli Kay and Andy Mitten to discuss Robin van Persie's controversial transfer from Arsenal to Manchester United in 2012. They delve into the fan backlash and its implications on club rivalries. The conversation highlights Sir Alex Ferguson's motives behind the transfer and how it influenced the Premier League landscape. The emotional impact on fans is also explored, making this a pivotal moment in modern football history that shaped Van Persie's legacy.

David Ornstein, a respected football correspondent, and James Pearce, Liverpool’s dedicated correspondent, dive into Liverpool's flurry of summer transfer activity, including signings of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. They discuss the strategic implications of these moves in the face of Premier League competition. The conversation touches on Liverpool's evolving approach to recruitment, the financial balance required, and potential future signings to address their urgent striker dilemma. Exciting insights into the club's new era emerge!